System Restore is a software program available in all versions of Windows 7. System Restore automatically creates restore points, a memory of the system files and settings on the computer at a particular point in time. You can also create a restore point yourself. Then, when you use System Restore to restore your computer to a point in time before an issue began, System Restore returns your computer to the files and settings from the restore point. Your personal files and documents are not affected.

You can also undo a System Restore if the restore does not resolve the issue or if the issue worsens.

System Restore enables you to configure the computer's system files to a configuration that existed at a particular point in time. No personal data files, such as email, documents, or pictures, are lost.

HP Recovery Manager enables you to restore the computer's entire software configuration to its original factory condition. It reinstalls the original operating system (Windows, Linux or FreeDOS) and removes all other software and personal data files.

Whenever the computer suddenly develops a problem, you should first perform a System Restore to try to resolve the issue before performing a complete recovery using HP Recovery Manager.

Microsoft System Restore is enabled by default on most, if not all, HP computers that come with Windows 7. However, Microsoft System Restore can be disabled and can cause problems if you try to restore from a previous point. To make sure System Restore is enabled, complete the following steps:

Show me how

Click Start (), right-click Computer, and then select Properties. The System window displays.

Figure : System window

On the left side of the System window, click System protection. The System Properties window displays, and the System Protection tab is active.

If you are prompted for an Administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Figure : System Properties window

In the center of the System Properties window, check whether System Restore is enabled:

If Off is listed in the Protection column, System Restore is disabled. Click Configure, select Restore system settings and previous versions of files, and then click OK. System Restore is now enabled. Continue to Creating a restore point in System Restore, Windows 7.

Malware scanning software can have built-in protection systems that prevent other software programs from altering their structure - including System Restore. When System Restore is unable to use the files of the scanning software, System Restore fails and the following message appears:

System Restore did not complete successfully. Your computer's system files and settings were not changed ...

As an example, many HP and Compaq desktop computers come with Norton Internet Security software. If your computer has Norton Internet Security, you can use the following steps to temporarily disable its built-in protection:

note:

If your computer uses a different type of virus protection, use the manufacturer's instructions to disable the protection temporarily.

If System Restore does not work in Windows 7, use the following steps to make sure System Restore is enabled and active:

Show me how

Click Start (), right-click Computer, and then select Properties. The System window displays.

Figure : System window

On the left side of the System window, click System protection. The System Properties window displays, and the System Protection tab is active.

If you are prompted for an Administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Figure : System Properties window

In the center of the System Properties window, check whether System Restore is enabled:

If On displays in the Protection column, System Restore is enabled.

If Off displays in the Protection column, System Restore is disabled. Click Configure, select Restore system settings and previous versions of files, and then click OK. The System Properties window displays, and the System Protection tab is active.